English
(by Alan, for Mark Nunes) – All three faculty searches are
complete. The ETCMA retreat is underway and Alan suggests that all other
departments do something similar in order to begin work on SACS.

Math
– Math lecturer search is in progress. An MAT exam information
letter will be sent out to students, providing information including the
URL to the online sample questions. The full MET practice exam will not
be offered, as the Math department has concerns with providing a full
practice exam for the placement test.Alan, Andy and Julie discussed differences in student
backgrounds in Mathematics. Laura Ritter spoke on Mathematical
Modeling of Atherogenesis, which
received a fairly good turn out.

BCP
– The Biology search is complete and the Chemistry and Physics
searches are in progress. Phil spoke on his experiences with candidate
interviews so far. The department is working on breaking down the SACS
assignments. The NARST presentation is coming up.

SIS
– Two geography candidates are coming in for interviews soon, the
other searches are in progress. Julie expresses that the university
should look at other assessment measures aside from FCAR's. Julie asks if
any departments are interested in collaborating on the Spring
International Forum on Environmental Sustainability. Andrew, Julie and
Phil talk about possible collaborations and guest speakers. Alan updated
everyone on the CSE and ETM Dean searches progress. The committees should
meet the week of the 23rd, and will make their recommendation
to Zvi.Alan and Julie
discussed out-of-equity changes and their effects on faculty and
department chair pay. Any faculty over $1,000 out-of-equity will receive
a $850 increase. Alan isn't sure how the equity adjustments will affect
Department Chairs.

Zvi
has given each Dean $20,000 for end-of-year projects. SIS will receive the
money for Language Lab updates, as BCP will be able to generate some
additional funds from lab fees. Alan noted that he will be checking with
IT to see if they'll be replacing old computers. Alan asks that everyone
communicate with Procurement about any purchases and payments that are
expected to be incurred during June. P-cards will be cut-off May 11, and
leftover funds will be grouped and designated according to University
priorities.

Alan
asks that everyone review the USG General Education Learning Outcomes.
Alan will send an electronic copy of the SACS Quality Enhancement Project,
and asks for suggestions on persons that may make a good addition to the
project.